Who is Kim Seokjin, Jin from BTS?

Basic Info

• Stage Name: Jin
• Full Name: Kim Seok-Jin (김석진)
• Group Position: Vocalist and Visual
• Date of Birth: 12/04/1992
• Age: 32 (in 2024)
• Western and Chinese Zodiac: Sagittarius and Monkey
• Height: 1.80M
• Blood Type: O
• Personality & MBTI: INTP (curious, logical, and introspective)
• Hometown: Gwacheon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
• Nicknames: Shoulder Hyung, Worldwide Handsome, Ahjae (Old man), Eat Jin, Alpaca, 맏내 (madnae – the oldest who acts like the youngest), Seokjinnie, Jinnie, Flying Kiss Guy, Car Door Guy (차문남), Jinpaca (친파카)
• Vocal Range: Tenor
• Music Genres: K-pop, Pop Rock, Ballad
• Instruments: Vocals, guitar
• Languages: Korean, basic Japanese and basic English
• High School: Bosung High School
• College: Konkuk University – Theater and Film
• Postgrad: Hanyang Cyber University – MBA in Advertising and Media
• Training Period: 2010-2013 (3 years)
• Debut with BTS: June 13, 2013
• Brand Characters: Hip-Hop Monster, BT21 RJ, TinyTan Jin
• Favorite Colors: Blue and Pink
• Hobbies & Interests: Cooking, fishing, and playing video games
• Sports or Physical Activities: Plays tennis and has shown interest in outdoor sports
• Emojis: 🐹 (Hamster) – Jin is associated with a hamster because of his chubby cheeks and playful side. 🌟 (Star) – Also used by fans, inspired by the title “Worldwide Handsome.”
• Social Media: Instagram @jin

Fun Facts

• Loves: the color pink, collecting Mario and Maplestory merch, gaming and sleeping
• He used to have two sugar gliders as pets, named Eomukie and Odengie (Fish Cake and Long Fish Cake)
• He’s known as the foodie, thanks to his mukbang broadcasts and for cooking for the other members
• Learned how to play guitar and piano
• Was scouted on the street for his visuals by both SM and BigHit
• Can open a bag of chips with his feet
• Loves dad jokes and often makes puns in Korean
• Spelling Bee Champion 👌
• As a kid, he wanted to be a detective
• Once said he would date SUGA if he were a girl

Kim Seokjin’s Story and Journey – Jin

Pre-Debut

Kim Seokjin, better known as Jin, was born on December 4, 1992, in Gwacheon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. Raised in a middle-class family, he grew up with his parents and his older brother, Kim Seokjung.

Since he was young, Jin had a playful personality, often described by friends and family as outgoing and charismatic. However, his path into the entertainment world was unexpected and quite different from most idols.

Unlike many trainees who dream of becoming K-pop stars from an early age, Jin didn’t grow up wanting to be a singer or dancer. In fact, his first passion was acting.

Inspired by Korean dramas and movies, he developed the desire to become an actor and began focusing his studies in that direction. This dream led him to enter Konkuk University, one of South Korea’s most prestigious schools, where he majored in Theater and Film.

First Contact with the Industry

Jin’s first encounter with the entertainment industry happened in a very unusual way. While still in high school, he was approached by a scout from SM Entertainment, one of the biggest K-pop agencies in South Korea.

At the time, though, he turned down the opportunity because he didn’t feel ready and wasn’t interested in a music career yet. Fate, however, still had plans to lead him into the entertainment world — just through a different route.

In 2011, while walking to university, Jin was discovered again — this time by a scout from Big Hit Entertainment. At the time, the company was looking for new talents for a group that would later become BTS.

Interestingly, Jin was originally recruited as an actor, since his striking looks and charismatic presence caught the agency’s attention. He agreed to audition, but unlike the other Big Hit trainees who had spent years training in singing and dancing, Jin had zero experience in music or vocal performance.

Even so, Big Hit saw great potential in him and invited him to join as a trainee. That was the moment when his journey to becoming an idol truly began.

Training at Big Hit Entertainment

When Jin joined Big Hit Entertainment, he faced a massive challenge. He had no formal musical training, no dance experience, and the competition within the company was intense.

Unlike other BTS members like Jungkook, who were already skilled vocalists from a young age, or J-Hope, who had tons of experience as a dancer, Jin had to start from scratch.

His training included intense lessons in singing, dancing, and stage presence. He spent hours practicing vocals and dedicating himself to choreography, pushing himself to reach the same level as the other trainees.

During this time, he often felt frustrated, but he never gave up. His strong sense of responsibility and relentless determination helped him improve quickly.

Besides technical skills, Jin also built strong bonds with the other trainees. As one of the oldest in the group, he naturally took on a big brother role within the team.

His sense of humor and playful personality helped ease the stress of training, making him a beloved figure in the group from the start.

Challenges and Self-Improvement

Even though the training was tough, Jin always showed strong work ethic. He knew that to match the level of the other members, he had to give his all. Many times, he stayed up late practicing alone, repeating dance moves and vocal techniques until he felt they were just right.

One of his biggest challenges was dancing. Jin often mentioned that, in the beginning, he felt behind compared to the others when it came to choreography.

To make up for it, he put in extra hours on his own, watching videos, repeating steps, and constantly asking dance instructors for guidance. His effort was recognized by the other members, who often praised his discipline and commitment.

Another key part of his journey was vocal improvement. Since Jin had never trained in singing before joining Big Hit, he had to build his vocal technique from zero. At first, he struggled to hit certain notes, but over time he developed his voice and became a tenor with an impressive falsetto.

His vocal tone became one of BTS’s highlights, especially in emotional ballads, where his clear and expressive voice stood out.

The Importance of Support from the Members

Throughout his time as a trainee, Jin built strong bonds with the other BTS members, who became like a real family to him.

As the oldest, he often looked after the younger ones, helping them through tough moments. Jungkook, in particular, formed a special bond with Jin, who became like an older brother to him. Jin was always there to support Jungkook — whether it was during training or simply offering advice.

Jin also played a peacemaker role in the group. He and SUGA, for example, often stepped in as mediators whenever there were small arguments, making sure the vibe in the dorm and training room stayed peaceful.

Jin’s Journey Before BTS: A Final Note

Jin’s journey before BTS is a story of overcoming challenges, hard work, and personal growth. Even without a musical background, he managed to become a complete artist through dedication, persistence, and passion. His path proves that talent can be developed with effort and determination — and that even those starting from scratch can reach incredible heights.

His role as BTS’s vocalist and visual, paired with his unique personality and undeniable charm, turned him into one of the most beloved artists in K-pop. Jin didn’t just earn his place in the music industry — he became an inspiration to millions of fans around the world.

Jin’s Career in BTS

Jin debuted as a member of BTS on June 13, 2013, taking on the role of one of the group’s vocalists and visuals. His debut performance was on Mnet’s M! Countdown with the track “No More Dream” from the album 2 Cool 4 Skool.

At first, Jin faced major challenges within the group. Unlike some members who already had previous experience in singing or dancing, he had to develop his artistic skills from scratch. However, through dedication and persistence, he not only reached the level of the other members but also stood out in many areas — especially in vocals.

Growth as a Vocalist and Performer

Over the years, Jin refined his vocal technique, becoming a recognized tenor known for his strong falsetto and emotional delivery. His performances in tracks like “Awake” (2016), “Epiphany” (2018), and “Moon” (2020) show his evolution as a solo performer within BTS.

• “Awake” – his first solo song in the group, released on the Wings album (2016), features a melancholic tone and introspective lyrics.

• “Epiphany” – a highlight of the Love Yourself era, emphasized the journey of self-acceptance and became one of the most memorable moments of BTS concerts.

• “Moon” – from the album Map of the Soul: 7 (2020), was a tribute to the fans, expressing his connection with ARMY in a metaphorical way.

In addition to these tracks, Jin also contributed to the Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth OST alongside V, performing “It’s Definitely You,” and collaborated in alternate versions of songs with other members.

Stage Presence and Dance Performances

Although he admitted struggling with dance in the early years, Jin showed remarkable growth in live performances. He improved his body expression and stage presence, standing out in songs like “Fake Love“, “Spring Day“ and “Jamais Vu“. His effort earned praise from critics and fellow members, establishing him as a versatile artist.

During tours, Jin was known for his connection with the audience. He created iconic moments at concerts, such as his emotional farewells and fun interactions with fans.

Recognition and Industry Impact

As BTS gained global success, Jin received praise for his unique voice and stage presence. His emotional performances and vocal skills were recognized by critics and industry professionals.

In 2018, he and the other BTS members were awarded the fifth-class Order of Cultural Merit by the South Korean government, in recognition of the group’s contribution to the country’s culture and music.

Jin also ranked frequently among the most popular idols in South Korea, known for his looks and charm, earning him the nickname “Worldwide Handsome.”

Jin’s Solo Career

Jin’s transition into his solo career was a gradual but meaningful process. While he had built his identity within BTS over the years, his individual journey highlighted not only his vocal talent, but also his artistic sensitivity and unique charisma. His solo path has been marked by emotional songs, a hiatus for military service, and a triumphant return with Happy, his first solo album.

First Steps as a Solo Artist

His first solo release came in 2019 with Tonight, a special song released during the annual BTS Festa. The ballad was inspired by Jin’s bond with his pets and revealed a more introspective side of the artist.

In 2020, he released Abyss, another deeply personal track. The song touched on feelings of insecurity and emotional exhaustion, themes that deeply resonated with fans. Unlike his earlier solos, Abyss showed a more vulnerable and open Jin, speaking about his mental health.

In December 2021, Super Tuna brought an unexpected twist. With its playful tone and catchy melody, the song quickly went viral, becoming a hit among fans and across social media.

“The Astronaut” and Military Service

In October 2022, Jin released The Astronaut, his first official solo song. The track, created in collaboration with Coldplay, featured an emotional melody and heartfelt lyrics symbolizing his connection with fans.

The release was followed by a live performance during Coldplay’s concert in Argentina — a memorable moment for both Jin and the audience.

Shortly after, Jin announced his enlistment for mandatory military service. He began training in December 2022 and stayed out of the spotlight until his discharge in June 2024.

Jin’s Return: Solo Projects and Achievements After Military Service

Six months after completing his military service, Jin returned to the artistic and business scene with a packed schedule, establishing himself as one of the most versatile and influential artists in K-pop.

🔹 Musical Career

• Release of his first solo album, Happy, which topped the charts.
• Special performances, including the Happy Special Live Stage (2 days).
• Re-release and new MV of Super Tuna, the viral hit that became a global phenomenon.
• A new OST for 2025, reinforcing his presence in Korean drama soundtracks.

🔹 Business and Entrepreneurship

• Founded Jini’s Lamp Agricultural Corp, a company focused on agricultural production.
• Created the Yesan Doga Company, responsible for distributing alcoholic products under the IGIN brand.

🔹 TV and Variety Shows

• Star of Run Jin, an entertainment show with 20 episodes and counting.
• Appearances on hit programs like Jimmy Fallon Live and Jin Live on Venue 101.
• Special events, including the Jin Carousel Event with ARMY and Jin High Five Event in Japan.
• Record-breaking variety shows and reality programs:
• Half Star Hotel – broke viewer records!
• Handsome Guys – another audience success!
• I Love Everyone’s Zoo (Japan), Since Those Days, Leemujin Service, Kian’s Bizarre BB, K Star Next Door Show, Salon Drip.
• A new variety show on Netflix is coming soon!

🔹 Fashion and Brand Endorsements

• Appointed Global Ambassador for top brands:
  • Gucci, Laneige, Fred Jewelry, Alo BA, Visit Seoul BA.
• Featured on iconic fashion magazine covers:
  • W Korea, Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue Korea (edição especial), GQ Japan, Vogue Japan, Dicon Korea.

🔹 Special Events and Recognition

• Served as an Olympic Torchbearer, reinforcing his global relevance.
• Collaborations and patents with brands such as Wootteo, Kolon Sport, Papa Taxi, Bibigo, and Merch.

Jin has shown that his impact goes far beyond BTS. He has solidified himself as a successful solo artist, an innovative entrepreneur, and a global pop culture icon. His post-military return has been marked by ambitious projects that continue to expand his influence across multiple fields.

“Super Tuna (Extended Version)” and “Run Jin”

After completing his military service, Jin quickly got back to work by releasing the extended version of Super Tuna. What started as a simple gift for fans got a new arrangement and upgraded production, while keeping its playful vibe.

He also launched Run Jin, an entertainment show inspired by the iconic Run BTS!. In the program, he takes on challenges and games, showing off his natural talent for humor and variety. Run Jin quickly won over fans and revealed yet another charming side of the singer.

“Happy”: The First Solo Album

After months of anticipation, Jin released his first solo album, Happy, on November 15, 2024. The album marked a new chapter in his journey, bringing a more mature and versatile sound.

Album Concept and Message

Unlike his previous emotional ballads, Happy explored a more upbeat and energetic side of Jin. In interviews, he said he wanted to create an album that expressed feelings of joy, hope, and renewal — a reflection of his return after military service and his gratitude for the support from fans.

The album balances soft melodies with vibrant tracks, blending pop, alternative rock, and heartfelt ballads. The production is refined, highlighting Jin’s powerful vocals and growth as a solo artist.

Singles and Highlights

The first single, I’ll Be There, was released on October 25, 2024, serving as a prelude to the album. It’s an emotional ballad that emphasizes Jin’s expressive voice and his storytelling ability through music.

On November 15, with the album release, Running Wild was presented as the title track. Unlike his previous solos, this song brought a more dynamic energy and a bolder instrumental, mixing in pop rock elements.

On November 26, Falling was released as the third single, showcasing the album’s diversity. The song featured Taka, lead singer of the Japanese band One Ok Rock, and delivered a more intense and dramatic sound.

Collaborations and Production

Happy featured high-profile collaborations, showing Jin’s desire to expand his musical reach. Wendy from Red Velvet, joined him on the track Heart on the Window, adding a gentle and harmonious touch to the album.

His collaboration with Gary Barlow of Take That on Running Wild brought a classic pop feel to the track. The album was produced by renowned names like Pdogg, Ryan Carline, and Josh Record, ensuring a sophisticated and polished sound.

Recepção e Impacto

The album was well received by both critics and fans. Happy debuted in the Top 5 of the Billboard 200, landing at #4 in the United States. In South Korea, the album sold over 750,000 copies in its first week, earning a triple platinum certification from KMCA.

Beyond its commercial success, Happy established Jin as a solo artist capable of exploring varied musical styles without losing his identity. The way he balanced emotion and brightness in the album showed his artistic maturity and ability to reinvent himself.

“Close to You” – Jin’s New OST and Its Connection to When The Stars Gossip

“Close to You” – Jin’s New OST and Its Connection to When The Stars Gossip
Jin surprised fans with “Close to You”, an emotional song featured on the soundtrack of the Korean drama When The Stars Gossip. Released on January 26, 2025, the track is a gentle and sentimental ballad that perfectly matches the drama’s atmosphere.

Jin’s unique voice delivers a deep sense of nostalgia and longing, showcasing his ability to express intense emotion. More than just a gift for fans, Close to You reaffirms Jin’s talent in solo projects, further establishing his name as one of the most influential artists of his generation.

If you want to know all the details about the song, the full lyrics, its connection to the drama, and an in-depth analysis, check out our full review on the website: Close To You Review.

Jin’s Personal Life

Kim Seok-jin, globally known as Jin from BTS, is much more than a talented singer and K-pop icon. Off stage, he stands out for his charismatic personality, dedication to family, wide range of interests, and growing presence in the business world.

Childhood and Education

Jin was born on December 4, 1992, in Gwacheon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. Raised in a traditional family, he grew up alongside his parents and his older brother, Kim Seok-jung. From a young age, Jin showed a playful and outgoing personality, something that stayed with him throughout his career.

Although he initially dreamed of becoming an actor, his path took an unexpected turn when he joined Big Hit Entertainment. Even so, he continued to pursue his academic passion, graduating in Theater and Film from Konkuk University in 2017. Wanting to expand his knowledge, he later enrolled at Hanyang Cyber University, exploring areas beyond music.

Personality and Relationships

As the oldest member of BTS, Jin naturally took on the role of a “big brother” in the group, helping maintain a light and positive atmosphere. Despite his signature humor and famous puns, Jin is highly disciplined and committed, always striving to improve his skills.

In addition to his bond with the group, Jin has always shown deep affection for ARMY. His life philosophy revolves around happiness — both his own and others’. He believes that laughing and having fun are essential to living well, and this positive mindset is reflected in the way he interacts with fans.

Interests and Hobbies

Jin has a wide variety of interests that highlight his multifaceted personality:

• Cooking: Passionate about food, Jin often cooked for BTS members. This led to the creation of Eat Jin, where he shared culinary moments with fans.
• Video Games: A dedicated gamer, he has a strong connection to games like MapleStory, becoming an official ambassador in 2022.
• Fishing: After releasing Super Tuna, Jin’s love for fishing became even more apparent. He considers it a relaxing hobby.
• Collecting: His passion for Super Mario and gaming led him to build an impressive collection of themed items.

Business Ventures

In recent years, Jin has expanded his presence in the business world, investing in projects that reflect his personal interests.

Japanese Restaurant (2018 – Present)

In 2018, Jin opened a Japanese restaurant in Seoul called Ossu Seiromushi, in partnership with his brother Kim Seok-jung. The place became an instant success, known for its sophisticated cuisine and welcoming atmosphere.

Alcoholic Beverage Line – IGIN (2024 – Present)

In 2024, Jin surprised fans by launching his own line of alcoholic beverages called IGIN, in collaboration with renowned chef Baek Jong Won. The brand name is a play on Jin’s name and the main product of the line — gin.

IGIN offers several products, including:

• Apple gin made with rice, containing 40% alcohol
• Plum and watermelon-flavored tonics, with 4% alcohol, sold in cans
• An exclusive merch line with T-shirts, coasters, and pillows

The launch included a pop-up store and promotional events, and the public’s reception was extremely positive, showing that Jin also has a strategic eye for business.

Jin and His Influence in Fashion

After completing his mandatory military service in June 2024, Jin was announced as the new global ambassador for Gucci, solidifying his presence in the fashion world. The partnership with the luxury brand reinforced his image as a style icon, known for his elegance and natural charisma.

Jin made his first big appearance as Gucci’s representative at Milan Fashion Week, during the Spring/Summer 2025 collection show. He turned heads with a sophisticated, minimalist look: a brown and blue V-neck sweater, paired with earthy-toned trousers and silver accessories. His style received praise from both critics and fans.

Jin’s selection as Gucci ambassador came as no surprise, as he has always shown interest in fashion, with a personal style that blends classic elegance and modern flair. His impact at the event was immediate, becoming one of the highlights of Milan Fashion Week and cementing his reputation not just as a K-pop star, but as an influential figure in global fashion.

Philanthropy and Acts of Kindness

Jin has always shown a strong sense of social responsibility and involvement in charitable causes:

• UNICEF donations: Since 2018, Jin has made monthly donations to UNICEF Korea. He initially kept them private, but was recognized in 2019 when he joined the UNICEF Honors Club, reserved for donors who contribute over 100 million KRW (around $84,000 USD).
• Support for animal welfare NGOs: Jin has a deep love for animals and has donated to organizations that care for abandoned pets. On his 2018 birthday, he bought food, blankets, and supplies for animal shelters in South Korea.
• Support for education and social welfare: He has also contributed anonymously to institutions that support underprivileged children.

His commitment to these causes proves that, beyond being a talented artist, Jin is also a person with a generous heart.

Jin’s Awards and Nominations

Throughout his career, Jin has received several awards and nominations, both as a member of BTS and in his solo journey. His vocal talent, stage presence, and cultural impact have been widely recognized by both Korean and international award shows.

Order of Cultural Merit

In 2018, Jin and the other BTS members were honored by the President of South Korea with the Hwagwan Order of Cultural Merit (Fifth Class) — one of the country’s highest honors for artists who promote Korean culture globally.

Individual Awards and Nominations

• 2017 – Melon Music Awards
• Nominated for “Best OST” with It’s Definitely You, a collaboration with V for the drama Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth.
• 2022 – The Fact Music Awards
• 🏆 Winner: Fan N Star Choice Award – Individual
• Nominated for “Most Voted Artist – Individual”

• 2022 – Circle Chart Music Awards
• Nominated for “Artist of the Year – Digital Music (October)”, for The Astronaut
• Nominated for “Artist of the Year (Physical Album – Fourth Quarter)”
• 2023 – Hanteo Music Awards
• 🏆 Winner: Global Artist (Africa)
• 2023 – K-Star MVA
• 🏆 Winner: Best Artist – Men
• 2023 – Seoul Music Awards
• Nominated for:
• • “Bonsang Award”, for The Astronaut
• • “K-Wave Award”
• • “Popularity Award”
• 2023 – Asia Artist Awards
• Nominated for “Popularity Award – Male Singer”
• 2023 – The Fact Music Awards
• Nominated for:
• • “Best Music (Winter)”, for The Astronaut
• • “Fan N Star Choice Award – Individual” (again)
• 2021 – Asian Pop Music Awards
• Nominated for “Best Film and Television Song (Overseas)”, for Yours (OST for Jirisan)

Impact and Recognition

In addition to awards and nominations, Jin has stood out for his global influence, constantly praised for his unique voice and emotional performances. His solo tracks — Epiphany, Moon, and The Astronaut — achieved significant success, establishing him as an artist with impact in both K-pop and the international scene.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kim Seokjin – Jin from BTS

Jin has never officially acted in a drama, but he participated in the soundtrack of Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth (2016) alongside V, with the song It’s Definitely You.

Jin has never officially acted in a drama, but he participated in the soundtrack of Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth (2016) alongside V, with the song It’s Definitely You.

What happened to Kim Seok-jin?

Jin completed his mandatory military service in South Korea between December 2022 and June 2024. After his discharge, he resumed his activities as a solo artist and Gucci ambassador.

What did Jin study?

Jin graduated in Theater and Film from Konkuk University in 2017. Later, he enrolled at Hanyang Cyber University, where he pursued an MBA in Advertising and Media.

Is it true that Jin from BTS is engaged?

No, Jin is not engaged. This is an unfounded rumor. He has always kept his love life private and focuses on his career.

Who is Jin’s brother?

Jin has an older brother named Kim Seok-jung, with whom he co-owns a Japanese restaurant called Ossu Seiromushi.

Did Jin leave BTS?

Jin has never left BTS. He only paused his activities temporarily to fulfill his military duties. He has now returned to the music industry and continues as a member of the group.

What does the name Seokjin mean?

The name Seokjin (석진, 碩珍) means “great jewel” or “precious and wise” in Korean.

What nicknames do ARMYs use for Jin?

ARMYs call him by several affectionate nicknames, such as:

• Worldwide Handsome
• Seokjinnie
• Jinnie
• Shoulder Hyung (Wide-Shouldered Hyung)
• Eat Jin (for his mukbang streams)
• Jinpaca (for his resemblance to an alpaca)

What was Jin’s first solo album?

His first solo album, Happy, was released on November 15, 2024, marking his return to music after military service.

Why is Jin called “Worldwide Handsome”?

Jin started using this nickname as a joke in interviews and public events, but it caught on and he became globally recognized for his looks and charm.

Has Jin received any individual awards?

Yes! His achievements include:

• Hwagwan Order of Cultural Merit (2018) – awarded by the South Korean government
• The Fact Music Awards (2022) – Fan N Star Choice Award – Individual
• Hanteo Music Awards (2023) – Global Artist (Africa)

Is Jin an ambassador for a luxury brand?

Yes! In August 2024, Jin was named Global Ambassador for Gucci, cementing his status as a fashion icon.

Did Jin complete his military service?

Yes! Jin began his service on December 13, 2022, and was discharged on June 12, 2024.

How does Jin interact with fans?

Jin shows his love for ARMY through relaxed livestreams, funny social media posts, and emotional letters. He truly values his connection with fans and often shares moments from his life to stay close to them.